Ep 4. Sense and Senility

In the fourth episode of season three of Blackadder, titled "Sense and Senility," we find Edmund Blackadder and his loyal servant Baldrick mistaken for two of the leading scientists of the age, Robert Boyle and Isaac Newton. Soon, they are drafted to the home of Lord and Lady Whiteadder to work on a secret project.

Lord and Lady Whiteadder, played by Hugh Laurie and Miriam Margolyes, are an eccentric and senile couple who spend their days bickering and being waited on by a team of servants. Lady Whiteadder is convinced that she is still a great beauty and spends hours primping and preening in front of the mirror while Lord Whiteadder obsesses over his collection of rare and exotic animals, which include a crocodile, an alligator and a tiger.

The Whiteadders have requested the presence of Boyle and Newton to help them with their latest invention, a machine that can turn base metals into gold. Unfortunately for the Whiteadders, Boyle and Newton are unable to attend and Blackadder and Baldrick are forced to impersonate the famous scientists.

The comedy of errors that follows is typical of Blackadder; the two are constantly on edge, fearful of being uncovered, and forced to spout off scientific gibberish as they try to avoid raising suspicion. The comedy is enhanced by the performances of Laurie and Margolyes, who perfectly capture the bickering and senility of their characters.

The episode is notable for its clever use of historical figures, as well as its satire of alchemy and the pursuit of wealth. It also contains several memorable moments, including a hilarious scene in which Blackadder and Baldrick attempt to escape from the Whiteadders' home by dressing up as a crocodile and an alligator.

Overall, "Sense and Senility" is a classic episode of Blackadder that showcases the clever writing, sharp humor, and excellent performances that have made the series a beloved British classic.